Subclass 888 Business Innovation & Investment (Permanent) visa
The permanent stage for existing subclass 188 holders who have met their business or investment requirements.
The Business Innovation & Investment (Permanent) visa (subclass 888) is an Australian talent & business visa. This guide covers who the 888 visa is for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025-26 cost (~$3,425 (main applicant)) and processing time (~12-20 months), the pathway to permanent residence, common pitfalls, and frequently asked questions.
Who the 888 visa is for
The permanent stage for existing subclass 188 holders who have met their business or investment requirements.
This visa IS permanent residence - but only for existing 188 holders.
Subclass 888 eligibility criteria
- Currently hold a subclass 188 visa
- Met the business or investment requirements of your 188 stream
- Met any residence requirements
- Health and character requirements
Subclass 888 cost & processing time (2025-26)
The indicative government visa application charge for the Business Innovation & Investment (Permanent) visa (subclass 888) is ~$3,425 (main applicant), with an indicative processing time of ~12-20 months. Figures are for 2025-26 and government charges usually change on 1 July.
| Visa type | Permanent |
|---|---|
| Location | Onshore or offshore |
| Length of stay | Permanent |
| Work rights | Unlimited - full PR work rights |
| Study rights | Yes |
| Government charge | ~$3,425 (main applicant) |
| Processing time | ~12-20 months |
| Pathway to PR | This visa IS permanent residence - but only for existing 188 holders. |
Pathway & next steps
This visa IS permanent residence - but only for existing 188 holders.
Many applicants also compare the 188 (Business Innovation & Investment (Provisional) visa), the 858 (National Innovation visa (NIV)). Run a free 60-second VisaChief check to see which subclass best fits your profile, then prepare a lodgement-ready application reviewed by a registered migration agent.
Common 888 visa pitfalls we fix
Subclass 888 visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the subclass 888 visa cost?
The Business Innovation & Investment (Permanent) visa (subclass 888) base application charge is ~$3,425 (main applicant). Government charges are indicative for 2025-26 and usually change on 1 July - always confirm the current visa application charge at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before lodging.
How long does the subclass 888 visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~12-20 months. Actual timeframes depend on the Department of Home Affairs caseload, how complete your application is, and your individual circumstances.
Does the subclass 888 visa lead to permanent residence?
This visa IS permanent residence - but only for existing 188 holders.
Can I work on the subclass 888 visa?
Work rights on the Business Innovation & Investment (Permanent) visa (subclass 888): Unlimited - full PR work rights.
Who can apply for the 888 visa?
The permanent stage for existing subclass 188 holders who have met their business or investment requirements.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Australian Government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, charges and processing times change - confirm the current rules before you lodge:
- Department of Home Affairs (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) - official Australian immigration authority